Rufino L. Garza

Rufino (AKA Rudy) Garza reached his end of the trail on August 9, 2020. He is now resting in the arms of our Lord. He was born on July 10, 1930 in Harlingen, Texas and lived in Sebastian, Texas all his life, 90 years. Rudy is preceded in death by his parents, Antonio and Justina Garza, his beloved daughter Mary Garcia; his sister Jova; brothers, Amparo, Cruz, Donaciano, and Hijino.

He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Mary Frances. His son Rolando (Norma) Garza and four grandchildren; Thomas and Randy Lee Garcia; and Stephanie (Efrain) Perez and Stacy Garza plus five great grandchildren; Ysabella, Kaylin, Isalynn, Iliana, and Ian. Rudy is survived by his sister, Fela Juarez who accompanied him to all the Pow Wows (Native Indian Festivals) and the Don Narciso Martinez functions in San Benito. He is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces.

He is a veteran of the Korean War. Rudy was honorably discharged as a Corporal from the US Army. Conjunto music was one of his most precious memories. He started playing the accordion at a young age and the bajo sexto. Rudy played with various conjunto bands. His most memorable was playing with Don Narciso Martinez, El Huracan del Valle. In 1986 the conjunto group performed at the Festival of American Folklife Smithsonian Institution & National Park Service in Washington D.C. Rudy and each member received an official recognition and appreciation for their exceptional contribution to conjunto music. In 1978 he was introduced to archery. After shooting his first arrow, he was hooked and later became a State Champion in his class. Rudy’s love for archery plus encouragement from Mary inspired him to open Eagles Nest Archery Shop in 1985. His customers/friends enjoyed listening to his story telling of his youth and experiences. Also, most of his time was spent assisting other archers and exchanging stories about hunts and fishing that they all enjoyed.

Rudy was an inspiration to many. He took great pride in teaching archery to the youth through various organizations. He was a kind humble gentleman with a wealth of knowledge to share. He was a walking encyclopedia about anything to do with archery. He will be missed.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at Heavenly Grace Funeral Home (26873 N. White Ranch Rd., La Feria, Texas 78559) from 5 to 9 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. Gravesite service to be announced.